After a distanced 2020 event, the VMAs are coming back in 2021 at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center with a live audience. The awards are scheduled to take place on Sunday, September 12.
“MTV and Barclays Center are working closely with state and local officials to implement best practices and execute a screen-breaking spectacle that brings together music fans from around the globe with the health and safety of our artists, fans, staff, and partners remaining the No. 1 priority,” organizers said in a statement, per MTV News. There is no mention of vaccine requirements, but New York previously implemented a vaccine requirement for indoor activities to begin mid-September.
Due to the proximity of the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, MTV plans to work with the 9/11 Day nonprofit to honor the National Day of Service and Remembrance.
2020’s unique event featured The Weeknd, CNCO, Roddy Ricch, and Maluma. Other artists included BTS, J Balvin, and Doja Cat in a variety of performances around New York City during the awards ceremony.
Lady Gaga and BTS were was the big winners at the 2020 MTV VMAs walking away with five and four awards respectively.
Three of Gaga’s trophies were shared with Ariana Grande for their collaborative track “Rain On Me”, including Song Of The Year, Best Collaboration and Best Cinematography. The pair also performed the track live for the first time at the socially-distanced ceremony.
Gaga also picked up Artist Of The Year and was awarded the first-ever Tricon Award for her art and philanthropic efforts. BTS, meanwhile, walked away with four Moonman trophies for Best Group, Best Pop, Best K-pop and Best Choreography. The Korean group also gave the debut live performance of their new single “Dynamite.”
TThe 2020 MTV Video Of The Year went to The Weeknd for “Blinding Lights”, who also won Best R&B for the same track. The star used both of his acceptance speeches to call for justice for Jacob Blake and Breonna Taylor.